Through Canada’s defence policy, Strong, Secure, Engaged, the Government of Canada is acquiring modern military equipment to keep Canadians safe and protected, and to support the security of our international allies and partners.

“At a time when defence and security needs are changing faster than ever, we must ensure Canada has a modern, adaptable military that is prepared to respond to evolving and emerging security challenges. Canada must meet the growing demand for domestic assistance while preserving our ability to defend Canada, protect North America, and support our allies. This Remotely Piloted Aircraft System capability will provide Canadian Armed Forces members with nimble response options during deployed operations, further contributing to their safety and effectiveness.”

The Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence

“The Government of Canada is committed to providing the Canadian Armed Forces with the equipment they need to keep Canadians safe. This agreement to acquire the Remotely Piloted Aircraft System will expand Canada’s ability to modernize its military force, contribute to joint intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance operations with its allies, and create good jobs in the aerospace and defence sector.”

The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Public Services and Procurement

“Through this contract, our government will provide the Canadian Armed Forces with the equipment they need, while ensuring long term economic benefits for Canadians. This procurement will advance Canadian innovation in our world class defence and aerospace industries, create high-value jobs, and contribute to economic growth in Canada.” 

The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

“Today’s important announcement is critical to the operations of the Canadian Armed Forces. The Remotely Piloted Aircraft System project will significantly enhance Canada’s contributions to joint intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance with our allies, and help keep Canadians across the country safe. We will continue making these important investments to bolster and support the incredible work of Canadian Armed Forces members.”

Marie-France Lalonde, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence

“Investing in Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems is but one of many planned upgrades for our Royal Canadian Air Force - in addition to the F-35 for fighter missions, the CC-295 for search and rescue missions, new and upgraded Cormorant helicopters, and the P8-A Poseidon multi-mission aircraft. These investments will have tremendous impacts on our ability to support Canada’s national defence interests at home and abroad, and this is great news for our service members operating out of 14 Wing Greenwood.”

Kody Blois, Member of Parliament for Kings—Hants

• Integrated into a network of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems, the RPAS capabilities will ensure the Canadian Armed Forces have the modern equipment they need to conduct intelligence and surveillance missions in support of domestic and international operations, and in support of civilian authorities, in response to situations like forest fires and floods.

• The RPAS will be a long range, long endurance system. It will only be armed when necessary for the assigned task. At all times, employment of arms will adhere to the Law of Armed Conflict, as well as any other applicable domestic or international laws. Use of force will be applied following rules of engagement applicable to the CAF. At all times, they will be operated by qualified RCAF pilots in conformance with all aeronautical rules and regulations, and in compliance with rules of engagement and laws of armed conflict.

• RPAS will not need to routinely carry weapons during operations in Canadian airspace.

• The solicitation, within a competitive procurement process for the RPAS project was launched with an Invitation to Qualify in May 2018, and entered the finalization phase on January 30, 2023. In April 2023, Canada submitted a Letter of Request through the FMS program to acquire sensors, communications equipment and associated required support. The Congressional Notification for the FMS elements of the bid, was issued on September 15, 2023. 

• A Fairness Monitor was engaged to oversee and report on the openness and fairness of the procurement process. 

• The United States (US) government's Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program is a means for foreign allies and partners of the US, including Canada, to acquire defence articles, services, and training through government-to-government agreements. The FMS program is overseen by the US Department of State and is managed and executed by the US Department of Defense.

• Canada’s Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy applies to the RPAS project. This requires that General Atomics Aeronautical Systems provide business activities and targeted investments to the Canadian economy.  To do so, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc.  has partnered with leading Canadian aerospace and defence firms such as MDA, CAE and L3Harris Wescam.

Associated links

• Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems
• Government of Canada purchases through the United States Foreign Military Sales program: Process and steps

Olivier Pilon
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos
Minister of Public Services and Procurement
Phone: 613-323-6621
Email: olivier.pilon@pwgsc-tpsgc.gc.ca

Diana Ebadi
Press Secretary and Communications Advisor
Office of the Honourable Bill Blair
Minister of National Defence
Email: diana.ebadi@forces.gc.ca

Audrey Champoux
Press Secretary and Senior Communications Advisor
Office of the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne
Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry
Email: audrey.champoux@ised-isde.gc.ca

Media Relations
Public Services and Procurement Canada
Phone: 819-420-5501
Email: media@pwgsc-tpsgc.gc.ca